Pope Francis Approves Miracle, Paving Way for Canonization of Blessed Elena Guerra

Pope Francis has approved a miracle attributed to the intercession of Blessed Elena Guerra, the foundress of the Oblates of the Holy Spirit, opening the path for her canonization as a new female saint known as an Apostle of the Holy Spirit." Blessed Elena Guerra, who lived from 1835 to 1914, was a close friend of Pope Leo XIII and a teacher of St. Gemma Galgani.

The approved miracle involves the healing of a man named Paulo in Brazil in 2010. Paulo had fallen into a coma after suffering a serious brain injury, but his recovery was attributed to the intercession of Blessed Elena. The Vatican will announce the date of Guerra's canonization at a later time.

Why this matters: The canonization of Blessed Elena Guerra highlights the importance of the Holy Spirit in the Catholic faith and recognizes the spiritual contributions of a remarkable woman. As an "Apostle of the Holy Spirit," her life and teachings serve as an inspiration for Catholics to deepen their devotion to the third person of the Holy Trinity.

Blessed Elena Guerra was known for her spiritual writings and devotion to the Holy Spirit. She wrote letters to Pope Leo XIII urging him to exhort Catholics to call upon the Holy Spirit, and the Pope responded by publishing several documents on the Holy Spirit. Guerra founded the Oblates of the Holy Spirit religious congregation and was beatified by Pope John XXIII in 1959.

In addition to approving the miracle attributed to Blessed Elena Guerra, Pope Francis also approved the martyrdom of two Spaniards killed during the Spanish Civil War and recognized the heroic virtues of an Italian religious sister. These actions demonstrate the ongoing process of recognizing the holiness and sacrifices of individuals within the Catholic Church.

The canonization of Blessed Elena Guerra will mark a significant moment for the Catholic Church, as she becomes a new saint and a powerful intercessor for those seeking a deeper connection with the Holy Spirit. "The approved miracle involves the healing of a man named Paulo in Brazil in 2010 after he fell into a coma with a serious brain injury," highlighting the profound impact of her intercession.

Key Takeaways

• Pope Francis approved miracle for Blessed Elena Guerra's canonization.
• Guerra was foundress of Oblates of the Holy Spirit, known as "Apostle of the Holy Spirit".
• Approved miracle involved healing of a man in Brazil who fell into coma.
• Guerra was close friend of Pope Leo XIII, teacher of St. Gemma Galgani.
• Canonization highlights importance of Holy Spirit in Catholic faith and contributions of remarkable woman.